Arriving at university
Before I started university, I tried to free myself from any expectations of what it would be like.
From the moment I opened the acceptance email to the night before I moved into my new room, I kept all my thoughts and worries at bay.
However, this anxiety-induced state of denial meant that I couldn’t properly prepare myself for what was to ensue in the following weeks of my life.
So, summer was finally over and it was time for me to for one of my lifetime dreams to begin…
Living space: my hobbit hole
In the morning, as me and my family got into the car, I still couldn’t fully grasp the idea that I was moving out.
When we arrived I swung open the door to my room I was so happy – it exceeded my expectations. I immediately felt inspired to transform it into a sanctuary that would truly be my own.
As an introvert, it was really important for me when starting university to have a place that felt safe and reassuring. Especially after a long day of pretending to be someone who knew what they were doing!
But as the day progressed I became more and more confident that I could make it through on my own. So much so that by the time my parents left, I wasn’t as scared as I’d expected.
Freshers’ week: starting university
Throughout the following week, I spent the majority of my days going to events and exploring the campus.
By night there were many parties and clubs to attend. Although that was never really my scene, I was determined to explore something new.
There is a bit of pressure when starting university – meeting new people and going new places – but I’m so glad I did it. As well as trying something new it also made me aware of other things to do that were more up my street.
When I wasn’t being awkward in nightclubs, I explored the university grounds. It was surprising to find how prominent nature is around campus.
Or perhaps the autumn season tricked me into thinking it was? Either way, I managed to uncover so many beautiful, nature-filled campus spaces that make me happy every time I walk through them.
Emotions: coping with uncertainty
I have been so excited to settle in over the past few months, but there were times when I felt slightly overwhelmed.
All of the events, lectures, opportunities and people made such a dynamic and enjoyable introduction to life at university.
But with so much going on sometimes it was hard to keep a grasp over my emotions. Something which I am slowly coming to realise is all part of the ‘adulting’ experience.
I’ve spoken to many different people about this. Now I understand that this state of emotional uncertainty is a natural response to all the change that is happening.
A huge part of developing as a young adult is learning to recognise and deal with your emotions. So far, university has provided quite the suitable environment to do this in. With that in mind, I admit that I treasure every aspect of this experience so far.
Looking through my list of goals, I hope that I will be able to confidently check each item off, leaving the university as the best version of myself.
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